In a disturbing incident that shook worshippers and preservationists alike, Turkish authorities have confirmed the arrest of a 42-year-old man, identified as M.G., for deliberately setting a Bible ablaze inside the Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque in Istanbul. The incident, which took place late in the evening of July 11, caused a minor fire on the mosque’s carpet near the historically significant Mahmud II Library, though it was quickly extinguished by alert security personnel.
According to an official statement released by the Istanbul Police Department, the suspect entered the mosque at approximately 11:50 p.m., placed the religious book on the floor, and set it on fire. The act was captured on internal surveillance cameras, clearly showing M.G. igniting the pages of the book, which in turn sparked a fire on the iconic carpet. He fled the scene shortly after, using the same vehicle he had arrived in.
Following a swift investigation, authorities were able to track the vehicle used in the escape, eventually tracing it back to the suspect. M.G. was arrested two days later, on July 13, after appearing before a magistrate’s court. The court cited a strong risk of flight and potential threat to public safety as grounds for his detention. The charge brought against him includes deliberate damage to a recognised place of worship, a serious offense under Turkish law.
Further investigations have revealed that the suspect has a checkered criminal past, with previous convictions for offenses such as intentional bodily harm, issuing threats, verbal abuse, and car theft. During police interrogation, M.G. reportedly requested a psychiatric evaluation, prompting authorities to begin a formal review into his mental health status.
Fortunately, no lives were lost and no worshippers were injured during the incident. Officials at the Hagia Sophia Mosque confirmed that the fire was swiftly contained before it could cause more extensive damage to the building or endanger visitors. The swift response from security operatives played a vital role in averting what could have escalated into a major tragedy within the revered mosque.
Hagia Sophia, a structure deeply rooted in the complex religious and political history of Turkey, was originally constructed as a cathedral in the 6th century during the Byzantine era. It later served as a mosque under the Ottoman Empire, then a museum in the 20th century before being reconverted into a mosque in 2020. The edifice today remains one of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks, attracting millions of Muslim worshippers and international tourists every year.
Despite the unsettling incident, the mosque remains open to the public. Security measures have reportedly been heightened in the aftermath, with increased monitoring to ensure the continued safety of both visitors and the site itself. The Turkish government has reiterated its commitment to preserving the sanctity and historical integrity of the Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque.